The history of the Gravensteen goes back to the beginning of the 12th century, making it one of the oldest stone buildings in Leiden.
It was originally a 13th century escape tower of the Counts of Holland.
When it was donated to the city by Philips the Good in 1463, it was given the purpose of a city prison.
Arrestees were locked up here while awaiting their sentence.

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ze pedro baptista 🇺🇦 🇹🇼

September 29, 2021

Road cycling

On this square people condemned to death were executed. On the windows with bars the judges and other officials stood to watch. The square has a delimitation in stone on the ground - outside this limit is where the people would stand to watch.

GuidoG

September 1, 2024

Hiking

A plaque a little further to the left under a tree explains the historical background.

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Elevation 60 m

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Wednesday 15 April

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Location: Leiden, South Holland, Netherlands

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